FIVE studies have now documented the inadequacy of musculoskeletal (basically back and joint) training in medical schools. These studies underscore the need for enhancing student's and doctor's knowledge about musculoskeletal medicine.
- J Bone Joint Surg Am. 1998 Oct;80(10):1421-7. “…failed to demonstrate basic competency in musculoskeletal medicine.”
- J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2002 Apr;84-A(4):604-8. “80% of a group of graduates from many of the best medical schools in the United States were deficient in their knowledge of basic facts and concepts in musculoskeletal medicine”
- J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2005 Feb;87(2):310-4. “…medical school preparation in musculoskeletal medicine is inadequate.”
- Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2005 Aug;(437):251-259. “…It is therefore reasonable to conclude that medical school preparation in musculoskeletal medicine is inadequate.”
- J Am Osteopath Assoc. 2006 Jun;106(6):350-5. “Seventy-nine percent of the participants failed the basic musculoskeletal cognitive examination. “
*Side note: Congratulations to the chiropractic profession for having the highest level of musculoskeletal competence.
Given that musculoskeletal complaints are one of the leading reasons people seek the services of a doctor for care, one would have to wonder why the medical profession is unconcerned when it comes to educating their doctors of the future on the finer points of musculoskeletal medicine. Perhaps the moral to this story is one you already know: Patients would be best served by receiving care from a health care provider with more musculoskeletal training – a doctor of chiropractic.
So the next time you or your friend or a family members seeks the advice of a medical doctor regarding back and joint care; make sure you get a second opinion from an expert… it could save your life!
